Namokar Granth

This document is a review of the "Namokar Granth" (Namokar Text) authored by Nira Jain. The review highlights the significance of the text in the context of contemporary societal challenges.

The review begins by lamenting the current materialistic and intellectualistic trends of the era, which, despite technological advancement, have failed to touch the inner core of humanity. It points to the devaluation of human values, moral decline, the prevalence of ritualism and outdated traditions in religion, and the violation of social and political norms as symptoms of a society struggling with existential crises. The reviewer notes that throughout history, whenever humanity and religion faced such critical junctures, great souls have emerged to protect and dedicate their lives to human welfare, often facing opposition but never deviating from their path.

The review then praises Acharya Shri Deshbhushan Ji Maharaj as a guiding light for humanity in these times characterized by the dominance of animalistic and demonic tendencies, a populace driven by desires, greed, and attachment to material possessions, and the spread of indiscipline. Acharya Deshbhushan Ji, described as a celibate, profound scholar, and propagator of truth, non-violence, and love, is credited with guiding misguided humanity through his teachings. His work in editing and publishing important Jain texts and translating them into other languages has significantly broadened the reach of Jainism. The review lists his significant works, including "Bhuvalaya Granth," "Bhāvanā Sār," "Shāstrāsār Samucchaya," "Chaudah Gun Sthān Charchā," "Namokār Mantra Kalpa," "Vivek Manjusha," "Stotra Sār Sangraha," "Dash Lakshan Dharma," "Trikāl Darshi Mahāpurush," "Bhagwān Mahāvir Aur Unka Samay," and "Tāttvik Vichār," acknowledging his unforgettable contribution.

The "Namokar Granth" is described as an invaluable treasure of Jain literature and a brilliant ray of Acharya Deshbhushan Ji's genius. It offers the path to liberation for the afflicted minds of worldly individuals engrossed in worldly attachments. The reviewer emphasizes that the content, like the eternal light of the sun, is everlasting and unchanging. The text simplifies fundamental Jain principles, the nature of the Ratnatraya (Three Jewels), stories related to Jain Tirthankaras, pilgrimage sites, and the secrets of important religious doctrines. It is stated that by studying and contemplating this book, individuals can achieve spiritual upliftment.

The review mentions that the original compilation of the "Namokar Granth" was done by Laxmichand Bainada of Delhi, of the Khandewal community, in Samvat 1646 (1589 AD). However, it remained unpublished, making it inaccessible to many devotees. The effort to re-edit and publish it in a new form is deemed praiseworthy and commendable, with the credit attributed to Acharya Shri Deshbhushan Ji for his tireless work and spiritual practice in re-editing and publishing the text. The book, originally written in a mixed Dhundhari and Khadiboli dialect, has been made accessible to the general public through Acharya Ji's refinement and simplification of the language.

The "Namokar Granth" is divided into two chapters:

1. The first chapter delves into the significance of the Namokar Mantra and the nature of the five supreme beings (Panch Parmeshthis) associated with it.
2. The second chapter describes the Ratnatraya.

The review highlights that this important Jain text inspires the declining human race towards self-realization and spiritual well-being. The Namokar Mantra is considered the root cause of the upliftment of all beings, and its constant contemplation, veneration, and remembrance can liberate the soul from worldly sorrows. The mantra is described as so miraculous that even beings other than humans, upon hearing it, can shed their lives peacefully and attain a good destiny. The mantra's power is said to free individuals from the suffering caused by attachment, aversion, delusion, and passions since time immemorial, and from the complex web of karmic bondage created by sensory pleasures. Remembering the mantra evokes positive karma, leading to the shedding of karma and the smooth completion of all endeavors.

The text states that the Namokar Mantra has 35 syllables, embodying the essence of the Panch Parmeshthis. It is considered destroyers of sins and fulfillers of desires. Although it does not explicitly express any specific wish, devotees consider it the bestower of all accomplishments. The mantra is recited as: "Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Aiyariyanam, Namo Uvajjhayanam, Namo Loye Savva Sāhūnam" (Homage to the Arihants, Homage to the Siddhas, Homage to the Acharyas, Homage to the Upadhyayas, Homage to all the Sadhus in the world). The review emphasizes that the Namokar Mantra is unparalleled among all mantras in the world from a scriptural perspective, not only destroying sins but also being auspicious and eradicating karma from its roots. Jain Acharyas have historically used this mantra selflessly to break the chains of karma. Despite being aware of the immense power of tantric practices, they did not use it for worldly gains. Due to their goodwill towards all living beings, they never misused this mantra.

The second part of the book elaborates on the "Ratnatraya" – the three principal virtues that lead to the upliftment of human character. These are:

• Samyak Darshan (Right Faith/Perception): The review describes this as the first step towards the palace of liberation. When the veil of delusion and worldly attachment is lifted from one's eyes, their perception becomes correct in the light of truth. Such an individual strives to remain detached from the effects of pleasure and pain, harbors no ill will towards any living being, and focuses solely on self-purification. This equanimity helps in crossing the ocean of existence and is a sharp axe that cuts down the tree of sin.
• Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge): This is attained when the darkness of delusion is dispelled.
• Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): This involves renouncing sins and worldly pleasures and engaging in self-purification.

In addition to the exposition of these "Ratnatraya" virtues, which are considered the invaluable treasures of human character, the book also provides introductions to the 24 Tirthankaras and life stories of many great souls and virtuous individuals who followed the path of Dharma. The book clarifies the true nature of Dharma and the character of a true seeker, free from flaws and virtues, inspiring the general public to walk on the right path.

The primary objective of composing this book is stated to be the propagation of Jainism, fostering religious influence among both Jains and non-Jains, and publishing a comprehensive work on Jainism that reflects the true essence of Jinavani (teachings of the Jinas), thereby enabling more people to benefit spiritually by becoming followers of this religion. The entire Jain community is eternally indebted to the great saint, epoch-maker, Acharya Ratna Shri Deshbhushan Ji Maharaj for bringing this book to light. His life, dedicated to diligent work, creativity, research, and spiritual practice, and the literary gems he has gifted to Jain culture for globalizing the eternal truths of Jainism are considered unparalleled. The reviewer concludes by stating that Acharya Shri's commendable efforts to popularize and spread Jainism, carrying the torch of self-illumination in this era of disorder and disparity, will remain unforgettable.